Iran closes Strait of Hormuz after vessel hit, vows severe retaliation

Iran said it closed the Strait of Hormuz after a vessel traveling on an unauthorized route was struck, warning that any retaliation would be met with a severe response and that the strait would stay closed until further notice and until the end of U.S. interference in the region. The United States is pressing Iran to stop attacks on ships and keep all lanes open, while mediators including Oman pursue talks among Iran, the U.S., Qatar and Pakistan; the dispute has pushed oil prices higher and clouded prospects for a ceasefire.